Effects of a Short-Term Detraining Period on Neuromuscular Performance in Female Handball Players

Abstract

The aim of this study was to determine the effects of a 3-week detraining period on lower limbs' neuromuscular performance in female handball players. Fourteen semi-professional players (age: 20.50 ± 2.98 years; height: 1.67 ± 0.06 m; body mass: 66.89 ± 8.75 kg) were evaluated using force plates on 3 separate occasions to assess the maximum and rapid force production by the isometric mid-thigh pull (IMTP) and the ballistic capabilities by countermovement jump (CMJ). The intraclass correlation coefficient, coefficient of variation, standard error of the measurement, and smallest detectable difference were calculated using the first 2 testing sessions. Pre- and postdetraining differences were calculated comparing the first and third testing sessions, using paired t-tests or Wilcoxon test when appropriate and Hedges g effect sizes (ES). The level of significance was set at ρ ≤ 0.05. There were no significant or meaningful differences in maximum and rapid force production capabilities assessed during the IMTP (p > 0.05). However, there was a significant detriment with small ES in CMJ jump height, modified reactive strength index, peak and mean propulsive force, peak and mean braking force, and braking phase duration (p < 0.05). These findings suggest that although maximum and rapid force production capabilities were not altered among female handball players after a 3-week detraining period, their ballistic capabilities decreased, especially those affecting the eccentric part of a fast dynamic task. They also highlight the importance of testing, planning, and programming in response to the fluctuations in handball players' physical performance over the season.